Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet – A Flavorful One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and flavor-packed meal, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect choice. This one-pan dish is full of smoky, bold flavors, thanks to the combination of smoked sausage, Cajun seasoning, and aromatic vegetables. With just a handful of ingredients and 30 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The best part? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is not only easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal cleanup. The smoky richness of the sausage pairs perfectly with the spice blend, while the rice soaks up all the incredible flavors from the broth and seasonings. Whether you’re a fan of Cajun cuisine or just looking to try something new, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Bursting with Flavor – Cajun seasoning adds bold, smoky, and slightly spicy notes.
• Customizable – Use Andouille, Kielbasa, or even chicken sausage to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet, gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 12 oz Smoked Sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice, rinsed under cold water
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
• 1 Medium Onion (yellow or white), diced
• 3 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups Chicken Broth
• 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh Parsley, chopped
• Green Onions, sliced
• Hot Sauce, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the sausage into ½-inch rounds.
2. Dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.
3. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents clumping.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and crispy on the edges.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.
2. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

1. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.
2. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to smell fragrant.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

1. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

1. Once the rice is cooked, add the sausage back to the skillet.
2. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

1. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
2. Enjoy your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet with a side of cornbread or a crisp salad!

Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Use the Right Rice – Long-grain rice works best as it absorbs flavors while staying fluffy.
• Don’t Skip Rinsing – This prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
• Brown the Sausage Well – This adds depth of flavor to the dish.
• Adjust the Spice – Cajun seasoning can be spicy; adjust to your preference.
• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Skillet – This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Spicier – Add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Swap the Protein – Use chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
• Add More Vegetables – Stir in celery, tomatoes, or okra for extra nutrients.
• Try Brown Rice – For a healthier option, use brown rice and increase the liquid and cooking time.

What to Serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Cornbread – A classic Southern side that pairs perfectly.
• Steamed Greens – Collard greens or mustard greens complement the flavors.
• Coleslaw – A refreshing contrast to the spicy dish.
• Grilled Shrimp – For a true Louisiana-style feast.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything in advance and simply reheat it when ready to serve.

2. Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes! Add pre-cooked rice at the end and heat for about 5 minutes.

3. What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked Andouille sausage gives an authentic Cajun flavor, but Kielbasa or chorizo work well too.

4. How do I make homemade Cajun seasoning?

Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

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Final Thoughts

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, easy, and delicious one-pan meal that’s packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re craving a comforting dinner or need a simple meal prep recipe, this dish delivers every time.

Try this recipe tonight and enjoy the taste of the South in your own kitchen!